Members of the Radley Engineering Society recently visited the headquarters and production facilities of Maeving, the electric motorcycle company founded by Old Radleian Seb Inglis-Jones (2004, E), on the outskirts of Coventry.
The student-organised trip offered a fascinating insight into the workings of a modern engineering business. During a tour of the factory, boys followed the production process from start to finish, learning about the company’s approach to manufacturing and the quality-control measures that ensure each motorcycle meets the highest standards.
Students also gained an understanding of Maeving’s design philosophy, exploring how successive generations of motorcycles have evolved while retaining the classic aesthetic that has become a hallmark of the brand. Seeing how design decisions are translated into finished products was a particular highlight.
Mr Inglis-Jones spoke candidly about his experience of founding and growing a business, sharing lessons on establishing a company in a competitive market and building a successful brand. His insights provided valuable context for students interested in entrepreneurship, as well as engineering.
One of the key takeaways from the visit was the extent to which design and manufacturing can overlap within a career, particularly in smaller companies. Students learned that engineers are often able to contribute to both areas, rather than having to specialise exclusively in one discipline.
The trip was a resounding success, providing an engaging and inspiring experience for all who attended, while offering a valuable glimpse into the opportunities available in modern engineering and product design.
